USF Reunion Magazine 2018

When I reflect on the years I attended the United Student Fellowship (USF) at NC State University, I am convinced that God showed me unlimited favor. Going to college and being a member of the USF were two impactful experiences of my life for several reasons: this is where I received Jesus Christ as my Savior; I received a great education; and I had the opportunity to meet some of the most sincere and loving Christians. When I experience life challenges, I remember that if God ordered my steps as a sinner to attend NC State University and the USF surely He will take care of this ... and that... ohhhhh and that. Yes, it is all working for my good whether I see it or not. He promised!

So my dear friends and associates, God put us together for a reason. We have something in common. Out of all the places in the world that we could have attended college and church, we were given the wonderful privilege of experiencing the USF at NC State University. This is the ministry where God saved many of us and provided us an unshakeable foundation.

To support Reunion 2015, the Committee made a determined effort to reach members who attended the fellowship during its tenure from 1975 – 2005. Brothers and Sisters reconnected, and new and old friendships/relationships began to blossom. Highlights of Reunion 2015 were: some gave their lives to Christ, some rededicated their lives to Christ, a Men’s Prayer Group was formed, and an USF Scholarship initiative was birthed. I wonder what God will do as a result of Reunion 2018!

It is the Committee's earnest pleasure to bring us together again for USF Reunion 2018. Our prayer is that souls will be saved, revived, and edified as we reunite again. Romans 14:19 So let’s strive for the things that bring peace and the things that build each other up.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in the development of this magazine.

May God use the reunion and this magazine to bless you in an extraordinary and unexpected way. And may God receive all the glory in Jesus’ name.

Sincerely,

Lisa Worrell USF Reunion 2018 Chairperson

Photo and makeup by Lady K captureme111.wixsite.com/keyinoshia

Peletah Academic Center for Excellence:

Students Thrive and Achieve Academic Success

Whether based on myth or statistical data, the widely held notion that a student’s prospect for future success can be determined by his or her third-grade reading score is disturbing. This perception labels some students as failures before their ninth birthday. Frequently, it is a view transferred by some to student groups such as minority students in general and particularly, African-American males.

Not willing to accept this perception as an inevitable reality, as Senior Pastor at Peletah Ministries in New Bern, NC, my wife, Pastor Dawn Baldwin Gibson, and I envisioned an academic environment where students could thrive and achieve academic success regardless of ethnicity, zip code, socio-economic condition, or any of the other societal “labels and barriers” used to predict a student’s future success or failure at an early age.

I recognized the daunting challenges this presented, having lived and overcome them myself. Against statistical odds, I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from NC State University and a Master’s Degree in Administration, concentrating in Human Services from Audrey Cohen in New York. I came to realize God’s redemptive power overrides societal labels and barriers and allows not just spiritual growth but growth in other areas, including academic achievement.

Although we understand that public schools strive to meet the needs of students, there are students who yet fall through the proverbial cracks. To provide a safety net environment that many students need, we opened the doors to Peletah Academic Center for Excellence (PACE) on August 21, 2017.

Though a private church-sponsored school for kindergarten through eighth grade, PACE adheres to a rigorous, studentcentered curriculum much aligned to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study where possible. All faculty members are either certified educators or college graduates with bachelor and/or advanced degrees. During this past spring, PACE faculty and staff attended a two-day training at the world-renowned Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia. PACE has adopted learning strategies used at the Academy.

In addition, we have been encouraged by the caliber of opportunities opening to our students by a growing list of community partners. These opportunities have allowed students to engage in many real-world learning experiences, while participating in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities from historical re-enactments to community service projects.

In preparation for PACE’s opening, one student attended an education forum in Washington D. C. in late July where she was interviewed by national media and personally met with congressional leaders from across the nation including the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Pastor Dawn Baldwin Gibson says that “this was just one of the many opportunities we hope to present our students with on their journey to becoming ethical, healthy, knowledgeable, well-rounded contributors to family, community, society, and the kingdom of God.”

We are always looking for new partners and donors to participate in this kingdom work. More can be learned about PACE at www.peletahministries.com.

Pastor Anthony Gibson

Black Lives Matters: One Pastor’s Perspective

An interview with Elder Barry Squires, Sr. Pastor of St. Peter Baptist Church Ministries, Inc., Aurora, North Carolina.

What’s been your experience with Black Lives Matters (BLM)?

Elder Squires: The majority of my experience with BLM has been through the media. Definitely in its initial state, I was very pro-BLM. From what I understood, it was a very important topic and movement. Even though I supported the movement, it was from a hands-off standpoint. In other words, I’ve never participated in any of the marches or rallies. From the pulpit, I have supported the core, original message of BLM, which initially sought justice for African Americans, especially when it comes to the police and our justice system. From that vein, I was definitely pro-BLM. As with any movement, it can change. Things can branch off and have branched off, to some areas and messages I don’t support.

So it sounds like your opinions have shifted away from BLM?

ES:I have not supported the violence that has taken place in the movement…riots, looting, and violence against the police. I cannot support that. The leaders started the protest because they recognized the fact AA, especially males, were being harmed and killed by the hands of the police…more than any other race in our country. We have an epidemic of violence against black males by our police force. As you look into the history of our country, policing of our people has been an issue since freedom. Even before then, when you consider the Fugitive Slave Act. So, all things considered, BLM has been an important movement as it articulates that “Black Lives Matter.” I think there have been people with other intentions in mind and have used the movement as a cover to bring violence against others and against the police. That’s where the movement lost some of its direction.

Would you support church youth in a march?

ES: Sometimes these marches can be dangerous, I don’t know if I would support a church youth group marching for that reason. When these marches take place and they have no true leadership and no true agenda,

it leaves too much room for chaos. There is no one accountable. There is no one leading the movement and saying to the participants “Hey, that’s not what we’re about.”

When I think about Martin Luther King Jr.’s March on Washington [in 1963] and the march on Pettus Bridge [“Bloody Sunday” on March 7, 1965], there was leadership there. When violence erupted, it was because of violence against the people who were being led in a peaceful march.

Do you think BLM movement still has legs? Is it still viable in America?

ES: It ebbs and flows with the anger. When emotions calm down, the marching calms down. In response, the media stops putting out information. For that reason, I think the movement is fizzling out and probably won’t come to light again until there’s some injustice that stirs the people up again to get behind the next name.

Would good leadership give the movement usefulness?

ES: There is value in the movement. Without good leadership, there is no way BLM can be sustained as a movement.

From a Christian point of view, how should we get more involved in BLM?

ES: The reason we continue to have movements like BLM is because of the failure of the church to address racial injustice in America. White Evangelicals say we should not do this. Yes, all lives matter, but they can easily sit back and watch when things happen to black youth and expect us to lay down our differences. Many of them have taken no responsibility in this issue. If the Body of Christ were unified and our white brothers and sisters would actively stand up in response to this type of brutality and say, “This is not right,” I don’t think we would have needed a Black Lives Matter movement.

There is a lot of racially charged rhetoric happening in this country that is truly against what God would have. The hate. The violence. But many [white Christians], say nothing. That’s what gives birth to this type of movement. Their silence. But you know what, they can be. It’s a form of “white privilege” that rears its head in the church.

They won’t take responsibly for the history of hurt and pain that came directly through the church, which they still stand on to this day. There have been some atrocities in this country but now we want to work together to make things right-Today. I just wish the Body of Christ would get involved, take its rightful place, and stand up against the injustices of America. Isn’t that what Christ expects of His disciples?

I am living to live again!

The Courage to Be a Visionary

can be global or it can be local. In any case, a vision is quite simple. It is seeing a need and meeting a need.

God has situated each of us in our vocations, our communities, our families and our friendships for a purpose, to meet the needs around us. Real visionaries are individuals who can recognize the needs around them and who are willing and determined to meet those needs.

Esther is an outstanding example of a visionary, a person who identified a need and met the need. Her story is recorded in the Old Testament. She was a Jewish woman who lived in exile in Persia. After marrying King Xerses, she realized that she was in a critical position to help her people, the Jews.

Are you a visionary, or are you just going through the motions of life? Walking in your vision is not limited to famous leaders, pioneers or individuals with a unique ability. It’s not limited to contemporary global icons like former President Barack Obama, Bishop Desmond Tutu, Oprah Winfrey, Colin Kaepernick or Sojourner Truth. Too many people are living without a vision or purpose. Did you know that God wants you to be a visionary?

A vision will help you fulfill God’s purpose in your life. There are a variety of visions. Some visions are big and some are small. Some visions can be carried through within weeks and some require several years. A vision

When the King had planned to execute the Jews who lived in his region, Esther was the only one who could possibly change his mind. God had set her up in this position so that she could be a blessing. Her cousin, Mordecai, saw this as a ‘divine set up’ and said: “… who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?’ (Esther 4:14b). The story continues by describing how Esther risked everything, including her life, to approach the King and make her request. Christ calls his disciples and the church to do the same. Are you willing to risk it all for the sake of God’s call? When we see someone in need and we know that we can meet the need, the Holy Spirit enables us to help them. Go ahead and be courageous!

In Christ,

Bruce T. Grady, EdD

What is prayer? I define prayer as an intimate dialogue with God, a conversation with your Heavenly Father. Sometimes it is an intimate monologue with God. It is sharing with God the intimate details of your life. Opening up to Him and expressing your feelings, whether they are feelings of joy, happiness, encouragement or feelings of sadness, loneliness, anger, and grief. During prayer, we allow God to talk to us. We allow Him to share what He has on His heart. God gives instructions. He reminds us of His love for us. He expresses His displeasure in our actions and He encourages and strengthens us to endure a test or trial.

It’s been said that prayer moves the arm that moves the world; and if there is anything that can prevail with God and prevail against Satan, it is humble, fervent and earnest prayer. He has commanded us to pray.

There is power in YOUR prayers!

Here are 4 Powerful Principles of Prayer.

Powerful Principle of Prayer #1 - God answers prayers!

God may not give you the answer you expect or desire, but He will answer you. Paul prayed, “Take this thorn from me.” God’s answer was, “My grace is sufficient.”

God’s answer is the best answer. It will always work in your favor (Rom. 8:28). You can rest assured that when you come to God that He will not only hear you, but He will answer you.

If you PRAY, God will ANSWER!

DR. T. CEDRIC BROWN Associate Pastor, Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church

Powerful Principle of Prayer #2 – Follow the Leader, Jesus Christ

Jesus was a trailblazer and a standard bearer. He not only instructed us in what to do, but He also showed us by being an example (John 13:15). He became our model, a template, if you will, of how to live a Godcentered life.

Jesus was effective in everything He did. Do you want to know why he was so powerful, so effective? Because of His prayer life or another way of saying it, His life of prayer. It was His ability to maintain a consistent connection with the Father that provided Him the power to impact lives.

Powerful Principle #3 - Prayer brings revelation to your situation

Jeremiah 33:3

3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.

Revelation comes in many shapes and sizes. It could be the answer to a question or the appropriate way to handle a particular situation. Revelation can come in the form of the right person for a particular project or job. Or it can be on how to handle a difficult person. The revelation is there, but you cannot see it. Prayer places you in the proper position to see or to hear the answer or revelation to your situation.

Daniel prayed to God for revelation regarding the fate of the children of Israel. Look at the response to his prayer from the angel.

Daniel 10:12 (NLT)

Then he said, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble

yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer.

Daniel received revelation for his situation because he prayed. Friend, stop talking to people who cannot help you and start talking to the One who has all the answers and can reveal to you how to handle every situation you face. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.

Powerful Principle of Prayer #4 - Private Praying Produces Public Power

When you pray in private, God will give you the power to perform in public. Matt 6:6

6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

Jesus prayed privately in the garden Father take this cup from me, nevertheless, not my will your will be done! After that He was strengthened, He was empowered to perform publicly. They beat him and He never said a word; they plucked his beard; they put a crown of thorns on His head; they mocked Him; they whipped Him; they nailed Him to the cross. He died, BUT on the third day HE GOT UP WITH ALL POWER IN HIS HAND! He was able to powerfully perform in public because He privately prayed to the Father! We are able to do the same! Do not underestimate the power in your prayers. God is waiting to hear from you. Don’t depend on the prayers of others. God is encouraging you and I to call on Him. Remember God answers prayer, follow the leader, prayer brings revelation to your situation, and private praying produces public power.

THERE IS POWER IN YOUR PRAYERS.

DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER IN YOUR PRAYERS.

Forever NC State

State, Carolina, Duke, or ECU; Was the choice really up to you? Our decision was absolutely fate; Only school for us was NC State; Won NCAA Basketball Championship my freshman year; Then I knew, I was meant to be here; NCSU was pre-ordained; So glad the list comprised my name; Agriculture, Communications, Engineering, Math, and Science Majors; Our faith and studies couldn’t be wagered; Faithfully attending United Student Fellowship; Like-minded students joined at the hip; Basic Studies with Dr. Pam Banks-Lee; Patiently extricating the “Word” for you and me; Attending Bible Study on Friday nights; Praising God with all our might; Wouldn’t trade for anything in this world; Teachings, preaching cultivated men/women out of boys and girls; Learning and growing in USF; Becoming more Christ-like, losing self; Now we realize we were chosen by God; An incredible experience like a synagogue; Sunday Mornings were such a blessing; Singing, fellowshipping, quietly confessing; Preachers like Shelton couldn’t be deterred; Delivering life changing sermons, straight up “Word”; All of us experienced challenges and the like; Yet kept the faith to God, Sneed, Shelton, and Reggie’s delight; Through numerous trials, we prayed and cried; About grades, decisions, telling white lies; Yes, we stumbled and fell along the way; Convicted each time to trust and obey; Our commission is to teach others, all we were taught; Salvation is priceless, can’t be bought; Thank you God for choosing me; Without NCSU, I couldn’t be; Don’t ever give up, keep the faith; Forever “Saved” by Christ, and NC State.

Krep-C aka Celeste Perkins

Faith to Fail

Linda Leigh Hargrove attended USF from 1984 to 1996. She is married to Dr. Claude Hargrove. They have three boys and live near Charlotte, NC. Linda is an engineer and a published author.

Romans 8:28

In those early years, one of my professional goals was to be a registered professional engineer. I sat awake at night, imagining two initials listed after my name – P.E. for professional engineer. By the time I landed that job I had already attempted to get certified twice. Certification then was a two-part process: Sit for the first 8-hour exam to become an engineer intern or EI, work four years under a P.E. then sit for another 8-hour exam. It was daunting process of studying and preparing but I was devoted to it.

Do you have the faith to fail? When I started on my journey as an engineer I had no idea there would be many opportunities to exercise my faith through failure. I got my first “real” environmental engineering job after graduation in 1995.

In the face of my testing failures, I was dedicated to doing my job for the state. I managed a multimillion-dollar grant program, tasked with installing water quality control measures throughout my home state, from Murphy to Manteo. I was pleased with my professional accomplishments. I helped install many cool engineering projects. I met many important and influential people along the way. But the failure to get certified always loomed over me. It was my something that I kept secret from the other engineers that I worked with.

I left the position in 2003, frustrated and saddened that I had not been able to pass the first certification exam. I felt like a failure. My husband, an NC State engineering

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

grad, and many of my peers had been able to pass the exam on their first attempt. I have sat for and failed the exam a total of five times. I felt stupid and weak. I’ll be honest. I was also angry at God. If He had allowed me to endure all those years at NC State and graduate with two degrees in engineering, why could He not have helped me pass the exams. Had I not been called according to his purpose, as Romans 8:28 says? Did I not love Him enough?

I carried these questions, and my pain and shame from failure into my next career move at UNC Charlotte in 2011. I currently work as a contributing engineer and faculty associate in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at the university. The position that I hold is currently temporary. I support research. I help with technical writing, and in some cases, I write articles for the department newsletter. On one occasion recently, I was called upon to write a series of articles on the department’s older graduates.

During one of these interviews I spoke with a graduate who is close to retiring. He started his work as an environmental engineer for the city of Charlotte a few years before I started work with the state. As we talked he revealed his struggles as an engineer trying to create lasting change in the water quality of the greater Charlotte region. Toward the end of the interview,

he highlighted a pivotal moment in his career which occurred in the late 90s when financial backing and engineering expertise from the state Department of Environmental Quality helped the city turn a corner. With great conviction, he explained that they would not have been able to realize the environmental strides that the Charlotte region enjoys today if not for help from the state grant program.

I was speechless. He was talking about the grant program that I had administered. He was talking about my work. The work of a non-certified engineer. The work of a selfproclaimed failure.

His words, although meant to merely relay an event in his life and professional development, changed my viewpoint of my own struggles to accept my professional failures. I had not been able to see past my own disappointment to what God had been doing in my life and in the lives of others. Indirectly, I had had a hand in changing not only the life of an engineer working in Charlotte, but I had had a hand in changing the Charlotte region. Merely because I faithfully done my job day in, day out for all those tear-filled years.

I am grateful that I listened to God, with eyes of faith, and not to my heart. If I had listened to my fleshly desire, I would not have had the faith to fail.

Salvation Scriptures

John 3:16

16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Romans 10: 9,10

9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Revelation 3: 20

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

Prayer of Salvation

Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge that I am a sinner, and I need to be saved. I am sorry for my sins, and I need your forgiveness.

I believe that your Son Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins, and I am willing to turn from my sin. Come into my heart and make me a new person.

Right now I confess Jesus as the Lord of my life. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. I accept Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, and according to His Word, right now I am saved.

Thank you Jesus for dying for me and giving me eternal life.

Amen

Now you are beginning a new life. We recommend that you join a bible believing church so that you can continue to grow.

Loving God, Loving People

Ihave a dilemma. Some days I’m simply overwhelmed by the raw magnitude of economic distress, violence, and vitriol I see in the world. But other days, honestly, I don’t notice it at all. Let’s be clear, the elements by which my overwhelm is created and sustained still exist on those days — I just don’t notice them. I never forget them. I’m just blind to them, sometimes. I think I suffer from acute socio political blindness. Many of the risk factors are there: burgeoning career, financial debt, ambitious academic pursuits, family care, selfcare, and home repair — just to name a few. Simply put, my dilemma is that I really would like to help address the elements that so often overwhelm me, but I don’t know what to do.

And so it was with me in the not-to-distant past. To be honest, I’m still

recovering from acute socio political blindness, but I’ve discovered a therapy. During my tenure as a student at Shaw University Divinity School I was introduced to the life and work of Dr. John M. Perkins. Dr. Perkins is a remarkable theologian, civil rights activists and community leader. He is a cofounder of the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA). Inspired, in part, by the poem above, he helped to establish CCDA on three key components: redistribution, reconciliation, and relocation. Since its founding CCDA has expanded this list to include five additional key components. In no particular order they are: leadership development, empowerment, (w)holistic approach, church based, listening to the community. Together, these eight key components guide would-be practitioners through the process of making a positive impact in their local communities.

While I’m not able to cover all eight components within the space provided for this article, I will

“Go to the people. Live with them. Learn from them. Love them.

Start with what they know. Build with what they have. But with the best leaders, when the work is done, the task accomplished, the people will say 'We have done this ourselves.”

- Lao Tzu

discuss the original three, briefly. For additional details and to learn more about Dr. Perkins and CCDA visit ccda. org. As previously stated, Dr. Perkins began his ministry of Christian Community Development based on the three guiding principles redistribution, reconciliation, and relocation.

Redistribution. In large part, the cycle of poverty has been held in place by a powerful few. Those that insist on hoarding resources for themselves, while building walls of division amongst the rest of us. Redistribution is a call for the decentralization of power. It is the notion that all people should have equitable access to the tools necessary to change their lives. Note, that redistribution is not taking assets from one individual and giving them to another. There is a proverb that states that giving a person a fish allows them to eat for the day, but teaching the person to fish ensures they eat for a lifetime. Redistribution is a reminder that this principle only holds true if the person has equal access to the lake.

Reconciliation. This is the recognition that all of humanity is created in the image of God. And it is an acknowledgment that we accomplish more when work together than when working in silos. The United States is a nation with a fractured narrative, to say the least. Reconciliation is a call for the church to intentionally address the systems that divide us — namely race. During the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the time of Pentecost, the book of Acts tells that the early church members had all things in common and that there was no lack among them.

Relocation. It is one thing to advocate for a stranger regarding an issue that does not impact you. It is a completely different notion, however, to advocate with a friend against a mutual foe. The relocation component compels us to become neighbors again, to live in solidarity with those often marginalized by society at large. In doing this, we will never lose sight of the cause for which we strive. When God provided the ultimate solution for sin, God started by entering into the neighborhood called Earth. While here, and in the form of Jesus, God suffered as we may suffer.

This is how we make a difference. We stop trying to give back and we start going back. We join with the people already intimately involved in carrying out the will of God for their local community. We do this in reverence to God and to God’s creation. In summation we live a life based on loving God and loving people.

Lorenzo A. Watson

Are

Philippians 3;14,15

you still pressing towards the mark for the high calling of God in Christ Jesus?

GET THEM READY

There are many who wrongly think they are going to Heaven. They consider themselves as Christians, and although they are not committed to doing God's will, they still believe they are going to heaven. Many have family, friends, and loved ones in this category. You have witnessed to them, prayed for them and yet they refuse to turn their lives to Christ. Since we know they are unsaved, maybe we should get them ready to be left behind when Christ comes for His church. Getting them ready means making sure they know the truth.

1. Christians all over the world will one day disappear (I Thess. 4:13-18).

They will be left behind, but the opportunity to give their hearts to God and escape eternal punishment did not end with the rapture of the church. They will however have to endure end-time events. We should help those who will be left to understand what is going to happen and what they should or should not do.

2. Beginning of sorrows (Matt. 24:4-8)

During the beginning of sorrows, as the world adjusts to millions of missing Christians, life will be

difficult. There will be worldwide changes all at once (Rev. 6:1-8), but the most important thing that they should remember is to not be deceived into following those who will rise up and say they are Christ.

3. Tribulation (Matt. 24:9-14a)

After the beginning of sorrows, believers (those who have turned to Christ after the rapture of the church) will be persecuted and killed. Even in the face of martyrdom there will be widespread revival and the gospel will be preached. Laws will no longer apply as the world tries to re-establish itself. There will still be many false prophets. Friend will turn against friend and family against family. Every man will be for himself. In Revelation, much more is said of this period with the 5th, 6th and 7th seals. The 5th shows the souls of tribulation saints who died since the rapture. The 6th shows the earth in turmoil and people crying out to die (Rev. 8:1-2).

Seal 7 presents 7 angels with 7 trumpets to announce God’s judgment on the earth. Six of the 7 trumpets are blown and bring with them much destruction and torment (Rev. 8:7 through Rev. 9:21).

4. Great Tribulation (Matt. 24:14b -15, 21)

Jesus says the end begins with the Antichrist taking over the temple of God in Jerusalem. This is the great tribulation, a time when the Jews who have now accepted Christ and many tribulation saints are killed. The sounding of the 7th trumpet begins this period and includes:

a. The antichrist declaring himself to be god – Rev. 13:4-9

b. The rise of a false prophet who established the worship of the beast i.e., the antichrist, and demanded that all receive the mark of the beast to show their allegiance to the antichrist – Rev. 13:11-18

c. Seven bowl or vial judgments from God upon the earth – Rev. 15:1

In these bowl plagues, we see cancerous sores on all who receive the mark of and worship the beast (16:2); the sea turning to blood and the death of all sea creatures (16:3); the drinking water turning into blood (16:4); people scorched from sun's heat (16:8-9); darkness over the kingdom of the beast (16:10); and a drought that dries up the Euphrates, in preparation for Armageddon.

The final plague is a great earthquake which crumbles cities with 114 pound hail stones that fall from Heaven. During this terrible time, men are in such pain that they chew on their tongues to distract themselves from other pain in their body. Also, those who refuse to take the mark of the beast will be slaughtered.

As terrible as this all sounds, it is not important to remember what happens with each bowl. What is most important is that they choose to suffer hunger and discomfort rather than sell their souls to the devil. Accepting the mark of the beast will permanently condemn them to the lake of fire (Rev. 14:9-10).

5. The Second Coming of Christ (Matt. 24:29-30)

After the great tribulation, Christ will return to this earth with His army to fight against the antichrist and his army (Rev. 19:11-12). This is called the battle of Armageddon, and Jesus wins.

Knowing that we may be unable to lead all of our loved ones to Christ before the rapture, we can plant a few nuggets in them to help when they are left behind. They will see and experience for themselves the physical changes in the earth and its environment. In the midst of this, they need to remember 4 things.

1. Don’t be deceived into following those who declare themselves to be Christ.

2. As long as the gospel is being preached, the door of salvation is open.

3. Under no circumstances are you to accept the mark of the beast and side with the antichrist against Jesus.

4. No matter what it looks like, in the end Jesus wins.

Pam Banks-Lee, Pastor New Freedom Christian Fellowship

USF Scholarship Opportunity

Grace and peace United Student Fellowship family! During our last reunion, it was suggested that we establish a scholarship. Since that time, a few alumni including Michael Blackman, Pastor Marvin “Pete” Connelly, Toby Crandall, Braska Williams and myself formed a Scholarship Planning Committee to brainstorm the logistics to create this fund. Based on our research and consultation with other representatives of the United Student Fellowship, we are proud to share that we are ready to initiate the steps to create the United Student Fellowship Scholarship (USF) endowment fund through North Carolina State’s University Development Department!

I am among the first to admit that throughout my career, doors have been opened, opportunities given and my salary impacted as a result of the degree I earned bearing the North Carolina State University seal. More importantly, I know that I kept coming back each semester because of the friendships I was blessed to form and the spiritual foundation built while attending the United Student Fellowship. The seeds of USF in my life have yielded a faithful church leader, a solid love for the Word of God and a heart for outreach. Because of these and so many blessings I received while attending NC State, I am compelled to tap into my resources to give back. A scholarship bearing the USF name would afford me this opportunity.

Dr. Marvin “Pete” Connelly, Jr. wrote: I too am eternally humbled by the opportunities that NC State University degrees have afforded me. Since my undergraduate days and Bachelor degree in 1985, I have obtained two other degrees from NC State. Two of my sons attended NC State and all four of my children are successful adults. Much of my time at NC State was spent with the United Student Fellowship and still

today as a pastor, I utilize the many notes taken during Bible Study with the Fellowship. Those years helped establish my anchor in the Lord; therefore, I cherish the opportunity to give financially to creating a legacy of remembrance for the United Student Fellowship.

$25,000 is the minimum amount required to establish an endowment at the University. To fund the $25,000, the requirement is to secure at least five (5) people who would be willing to give $1000 per year over the next five (5) years. We are pleased to announce that we already have the first five donors who will give $1000 per year over the next five (5) years! Won’t you also join us by becoming one of the donors to give $1000 per year over the next 5 years? By becoming one of the $5000 donors, you will help us increase the amount of the scholarship that can be awarded. For example, the interest from a $25,000 endowment results in a $1000 scholarship annually. Interest from a $50,000 endowment results in a $2000 scholarship. Your donation can be given in a variety of methods (e.g., bank account, credit card, property, beneficiary). Your support is tax deductible and grants you membership into the Chancellor's Circle at NC State. The Scholarship Planning Committee has partnered with Chris Price, Director of Development, from NC State to assist those interested in making such commitments. He can be reached at ccprice3@ncsu.edu or by phone at (919) 780-8280. If you are willing to join us in giving at this level or have questions before making this commitment, please contact Chris.

Maybe you can’t pledge $1000 per year over the next five years, but you would like to make a donation towards the scholarship fund. Once the USF scholarship is established, additional information will be forthcoming so that you too can share in this unique opportunity.

Please prayerfully consider how you can contribute to this worthwhile effort to establish the United Student Fellowship name for years to come.

Sincerely,

Elaine Barnes Food Science Major Class of 1984

My assignment is such a difficult task -limited to 500 words or less- to share ‘What I have learned about God. Thousands of lifetimes are insufficient to summarize all there is to know about God. This task attempts to define God who is eternal and infinite in character, attributes and being, by my finite mind which cannot nor has yet to encompass all of the totality of God. What I have learned thus far in my brief Christian experience is two-fold, my studies about God and God’s revelation of Himself to me, of which the latter has been greater. Yet even with revelation after revelation that God shares Himself with me, I’ve only just begun to learn of Him. Each day that I live is an enjoyable learning experience to discover more about this unlimited God. However, within the parameters of 500 words, I will endeavor to share the highlights of my learning experience that I consider top priority.

Now, a few accolades of the obvious attributes, those selfexplanatory wonders. God is Holy, Love, Righteous, Great, Compassionate, Faithful, Merciful and Awesome. He is omnipresent (everywhere at the same time), omniscient (all knowing), and Almighty. Jehovah-Jireh (provider) and Jehovah-raphe (healer) are names associated with the power of God, and yes the name ‘I AM’ speaks volumes of who God is to me, all who call upon this name, and the world at-large.

Among the vast attributes, concepts and revelations of God that stand out for me, the following two are my ‘principles to live by’.

1. God is always in the process of reconciling all of mankind back to Himself. His plan is to bring this world back to a God-Man relationship, and He wants believers and followers, to help Him accomplish this task. God is The God of the harvest. The problem that God sees is the same as Jesus stated, “… The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;…” (Matt. 9:37). God is actively working in the earth to continue the fellowship that He once had with mankind in the Garden of Eden. God wants His love along with the processes of life’s tests and trials to equip and enable me and other believers to be reminded of the Great Commission – share the Gospel to win The Lost.

2. God is seeking true worshippers. Understand the worship that God is pursuing is not just the outward expressions of behaviors and actions such as the waving of the hands, the shouts of praise and the dance. But the worship that God seeks is an internal attitude and mindset of total submission to His acceptable plan, purpose and process for one’s life. When total obedience is given to God, then outward expression will be a joy to what He hears and sees.

So what have I learned about God, the half has yet to be told. Each day as I get to know God, I will endeavor to make Him known to ALL.

Respectfully yours,

Dr. Reginald Stepney Year

graduated Dec 2015

Doctor of Ministry D. Min.

Interview with Christian Leadership Magazine Dr. Shelton Murphy’s Article:

1. What does it mean to be a Christian Leader?

A leader leads by the power of influence! Having a title, a position, or a certain rank doesn’t necessarily make a leader. A Christian Leader leads for the glory and honor of Jesus Christ. His aim, goal, and purpose are to encourage, empower, and equip so the individual becomes an empowered passionate leader, and uses their influence to bring others to Christ.

2. What are your thoughts and vision for the future of the community?

Our community has a plethora of systemic and cyclical problems and challenges such as: KSA educational deficiencies, rising unemployment, homelessness, unwed mothers, fatherless children, separation, divorce, substance abuse, addictions, health care costs, rising crime, death, incarceration, and a host of other societal ills. Despite the ominous cloud of doubt and pessimism that looms large around us, I am confident that with God and the clear vision of social, financial, medical, educational, and church partnerships we can certainly make a major difference in improving, uplifting, and transforming the lives and the landscape of our community and hopefully become a model or template for other communities to follow. We’re always better together!

3. Mount Gilead’s vision statement is “Making Disciples through the Transforming Power of Jesus Christ in the Spirit of Excellence!” How is this accomplished?

A disciple is a committed, growing, learning, obedient, faithful, and fruitful follower of Jesus Christ. Discipleship is the process by which a new born Christian begins to grow, learn, and mature spiritually to become a faithful and committed disciple of Jesus Christ. Our goal is to grow new born babes from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity and from membership to ministry. When an individual commits their life to Jesus Christ, the process begins. The new born babe is enrolled in a year-long discipleship course called the Basic Discipleship Studies Training (B.D.S.T.). The new babe is connected to a ministry of their choosing based upon their spiritual gifting. This process provides two small groups for teaching, learning, nurturing care, and relational fellowship. People may join church or come to Christ because of the dynamic preaching or awesome music ministry, but they are more likely to stay, grow, and mature in that church because of the relationships formed. Once the new babe has completed the B.D.S.T., they graduate with congregational recognition. They are strongly encouraged to continue their spiritual growth by enrolling in our Spiritual Growth Discipleship Academy (S.G.D.A.). The ultimate goal is to transform every disciple into a discipler, every student into a teacher, every follower into a leader.

4. What are you most passionate about in regards to ministry?

I have many passions, but my greatest passion is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ so that men and women are saved and delivered from the penalty and power of sin. The forgiveness of sin is the absolute greatest gift from heaven. Yes, God can heal the sick and raise the dead! Yes, God can take away all manner of sickness and give man wealth and richness. But what is all of this if the man dies and his sins have not been forgiven? “What shall

it profit a man if he should gain the whole world and lose his soul? Mark 8:36” My greatest passion is the saving of the soul! For this reason, Jesus hung, bled, died, and rose again that “…whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but shall have everlasting life! John 3;16b” Preach! Preacher, Preach!

5. What should visitors expect when listening to your sermon?

Visitors should expect to hear a clear, concise, insightful, revelatory, practical, applicable, and relevant presentation of the gospel through insightful teaching and illumination of the Biblical text. When the preacher brings the Biblical text to the current context and allows the Biblical text to speak to our current time, good preaching has occurred. This preaching moment gives the Holy Spirit an opportunity to provide real genuine and spiritual transformation.

“Expect the Best, and Nothing Less!”

6. How do you manage the business of the church versus the spiritual component of the membership?

First of all, leadership is the key! Everything rises or falls on leadership! The Associate Ministers, Deacons, Deaconess, and Trustees Ministries are our top Leadership Ministries. I personally meet monthly with these ministries to provide intensive training. They have ministry job descriptions and know their duties and responsibilities. They are trained before they are allowed to take office. I also work very closely with the Personnel Ministry in order to provide oversight and management for the employees of the church.

7. What inspires you every Sunday morning before you enter the pulpit?

I am thankful, energized, motivated, and inspired by the rich mercy and grace of God and how He has spoken His Word to my heart and now by His grace, strength, and anointing, I have been given this awesome, grand, and glorious opportunity to share this good news of the gospel.

Dr. Shelton Murphy

GOOD HEALTH

By Tina T. Payton BSN, RN Founder of A WELLthy Place

Of all the meaningful scriptures in the Bible, I recite this one most often to myself and others. It has become one of my favorites. Why? Because it shows me that God is concerned about every area of my life and His desire for me is not to be mediocre, but to prosper and be in good health! You may be thinking, Wait! You mean it’s important enough to God that of all the things recorded in the Bible He mentioned health—and not just health but good health? Yes! That’s exactly right! As a nurse, I encounter people from all walks of life. But I must admit, being in “good health” is one area that Christians often forsake for the work of the ministry and family. It’s also neglected because we believe that God gives us grace; His healing is available to us; and... the list goes on. But the question I ask is: How much more effective in all of those areas can we be if “good health” becomes a priority?

Health is defined as the condition of being sound in body, mind, or spiriti. Although most people immediately gravitate to the physical aspect of health, it is important to remember that good emotional, mental, and spiritual health are imperative also. In the absence of a health maintenance routine, repairs become necessary. The need for health repairs may resemble imbalanced emotions, lack of meaningful relationships, irrational thoughts, outbursts of crying and anger, vengeful thoughts, feelings of isolation, or fatigue just to name a few. Moreover, when left unattended those feelings can start to manifest as physical symptoms leading to increased doctor visits (which potentially impact financial health). Considering these things, it is evident why “good health” is mentioned in the Bible. It is because God knew that when left unattended, lack of health in one area is

likened to a cancer attaching itself to other prosperous areas until it consumes all good health.

Take a moment to close your eyes. Picture yourself in good health. Open your eyes and write down what that looks like. Now compare your current state to what you wrote. Is there an imbalance between the two pictures? If your lifestyles are our greatest witness, what message are you sending? The Holy Spirit isn’t the only help left to you to become the picture of health you saw when you closed your eyes. You have pastors, doctors, nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, trainers, financial advisors, etc. that have expertise and training to help you achieve your picture of health. Access the help that is available so that you can be well—in a state of wholeness. After all, achieving wellness is a constant because the moment that you stop working towards wellness, is the moment you are no longer well.

Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary

3 John 1:2 (NIV)

“Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.”